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Famous Volleyball Players from Calgary

August 30, 2024

Calgary, known for its vibrant sports culture and stunning natural landscapes, has produced some of Canada’s finest volleyball players. These athletes have achieved remarkable success both nationally and internationally, inspiring countless young players with their dedication and skill. In this blog, we will spotlight some of the most famous volleyball players from Calgary, celebrating their achievements and highlighting their contributions to the sport. These players exemplify the hard work and passion that Calgary is known for.

Ben Saxton

Ben Saxton is one of the most prominent names in Canadian beach volleyball, hailing from Calgary. Known for his powerful play and strategic prowess, Saxton has made a significant impact on the international stage.

Career Highlights:

  • Olympic Participation: Saxton, alongside his partner Chaim Schalk, represented Canada at the 2016 Rio Olympics, showcasing their skills against some of the best teams in the world.
  • World Tour Success: Saxton has had numerous strong finishes on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, consistently ranking among the top teams and earning several podium finishes.
  • National Championships: Saxton has won multiple Canadian National Championships, affirming his status as one of the country’s top beach volleyball players.

Why He Inspires: Ben Saxton’s impressive career and dedication to the sport highlight his exceptional talent and work ethic. His achievements on the world stage inspire upcoming volleyball players to aim high and work hard.

Player Bio & More Information: https://volleyball.ca/en/athletes/ben-saxton 

Chaim Schalk

Chaim Schalk, though originally from Red Deer, Alberta, has strong ties to Calgary, where he has trained and competed extensively. Schalk is known for his agility and defensive skills on the beach volleyball court.

Career Highlights:

  • Olympic Experience: Schalk, partnered with Ben Saxton, competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics, where they performed admirably against top international teams.
  • World Tour Performance: Schalk has achieved significant success on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, earning multiple podium finishes and establishing himself as a top competitor.
  • National Team Contributions: Schalk has been a key member of the Canadian national team, contributing to its success in various international tournaments.

Why He Inspires: Chaim Schalk’s journey from local competitions to the Olympics showcases the possibilities within the sport of volleyball. His dedication and achievements continue to inspire young athletes in Calgary and beyond.

Player Bio & More Information: https://olympic.ca/team-canada/chaim-schalk/ 

Claire Hanna

Claire Hanna is a versatile athlete who transitioned from indoor volleyball to a successful career in sports journalism. Originally from Calgary, Hanna’s contributions to the sport have been multifaceted.

Career Highlights:

  • University Success: Hanna played for the University of British Columbia (UBC), where she was a standout player, helping her team win national championships.
  • National Team: She represented Canada in various international competitions, showcasing her skills on the world stage.
  • Broadcasting Career: After retiring from professional play, Hanna transitioned to sports journalism, where she has become a prominent figure in Canadian sports media.

Why She Inspires: Claire Hanna’s transition from athlete to sports journalist highlights the diverse opportunities available within the sports industry. Her success in both arenas serves as an inspiration for athletes considering their career paths post-retirement.

Player Bio & More Information: https://gothunderbirds.ca/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/claire-hanna/353 

Sam Schachter

Sam Schachter is another notable volleyball player with ties to Calgary, known for his achievements in beach volleyball. Schachter’s athleticism and strategic play have earned him recognition both nationally and internationally.

Career Highlights:

  • Olympic Participation: Schachter represented Canada in the 2016 Rio Olympics, competing at the highest level of beach volleyball.
  • World Tour Success: He has had multiple strong finishes on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, securing several podium spots.
  • National Championships: Schachter has won several Canadian National Championships, solidifying his reputation as one of Canada’s top beach volleyball players.

Why He Inspires: Sam Schachter’s achievements in beach volleyball showcase his dedication and passion for the sport. His success serves as a motivational story for young volleyball players aspiring to reach the top levels of competition.

Player Bio & More Information: https://olympic.ca/team-canada/sam-schachter/ 

Louise Bawden

Louise Bawden is an accomplished beach volleyball player who, although born in Melbourne, Australia, has strong connections to Calgary through her training and competition experiences. Bawden’s career is marked by her resilience and success on the international stage.

Career Highlights:

  • Olympic Participation: Bawden represented Australia in multiple Olympic Games, showcasing her skills and competitive spirit.
  • World Tour Success: She has achieved numerous podium finishes on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, establishing herself as a formidable competitor.
  • National Championships: Bawden has won several national titles, demonstrating her talent and consistency in the sport.

Why She Inspires: Louise Bawden’s international success and her connection to Calgary highlight the city’s influence on the global volleyball stage. Her achievements inspire athletes to pursue their dreams and excel in their sport, regardless of their origins.

Player Bio & More Information: https://www.fivb.com/louise-bawden-high-sporting-standards-and-integrity/ 

Conclusion

Calgary has produced an impressive array of volleyball talent, from beach volleyball stars like Ben Saxton and Chaim Schalk to versatile athletes like Claire Hanna and Sam Schachter. These players have not only achieved significant success in their careers but have also inspired countless young athletes. Their stories highlight the importance of dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport. Whether you’re an aspiring player or a fan of volleyball, the achievements of these famous volleyball players from Calgary serve as a testament to what can be accomplished with perseverance and a love for the game.

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